Real Wood vs. Vinyl Blinds: Factors to Consider When Making a Choice
If you're in the market for new blinds, you may be torn between real and faux wood. Both materials are popular choices for residential blinds. However, they have significant variations which affect their durability, performance and visual appeal. Making the right choice ensures you get the best value from your new window treatments. With this in mind, here are four differentiating factors to help you choose between natural and faux wood blinds.
Size of Your Windows
The size of your window plays a significant role in determining the best material for the blinds. For large windows, you need a lightweight material that won't buckle over time. In this case, wood is a better option. Real wood tends to be lighter than vinyl, and this makes it suitable for large windows as it doesn't buckle under its weight. Also, lighter blinds are easier to operate on larger windows. On the other hand, if you have small windows, you can use vinyl blinds as your window treatments.
Colour and Style Selection
Wood has fewer colour and style selections as compared to vinyl. Since real wood is a natural material, you can only go for earthy, natural wood stains. On the other hand, since vinyl is an artificial material, it has numerous colour and style options. Therefore, if you'd like coloured blinds to match or complement the palette in your home, it's worth considering this before making a purchase. However, if you want a natural, rustic style, real wood is an excellent choice.
Maintenance and Durability
Both vinyl and wooden blinds are incredibly durable and long lasting. However, vinyl tends to be easier to maintain than wood. Since it is a plastic material, it is easy to clean. You only need to wipe down dust and grime using water and dish soap. On the other hand, wood tends to be more delicate as it's a natural material. Its durability and performance depends on how well you take care of it. Also, when exposed to moisture, wood can warp and get damaged, and this will shorten its lifespan.
Cost and Budget Considerations
Wooden blinds tend to be more expensive than vinyl ones. Therefore, consider your budget when making a selection. If you're installing blinds in the entire house, wooden ones will undoubtedly dent your pockets a little. You can mix real and faux wood in various rooms to cut down the purchase costs. For example, splurge on wooden blinds for the living room and master bedroom and use vinyl in the bathrooms and kitchen.
The choice between natural wood and vinyl blinds depends on these individual factors. Assess your needs and choose the option that best suits you. Remember, you can always mix the two materials depending on how you want to style different rooms in your home!
